Expert: Mia - 1/31/2009

Question
I have been taking the same birth control pills for almost a year. I recently started taking levothyroxine for hypothyroidism. I have been taking the levothyroxine and microgestin at the same time every day together. I recently noticed a light spotting off and on for the last week. Should I start taking the pills separately. Or what could be causing the spotting. I know I'm not pregnant.

Answer
Hi Christine,

Spotting/breakthrough bleeding is a common side effect of the pill. While it is more common during the first few months on the pill, it can happen at any time. I am not familiar enough with levothyroxine to know of possible interactions. However, it is possible that it is the reason, so taking one in the morning and one in the night may help. If it does not, give your doctor a call to check.

I hope this helps. If you have further questions let me know.

-Mia